What Should You Pack for Cambodia?
Cambodia’s tropical climate calls for light, breathable clothing to stay cool in the heat. Pack short sleeve shirts and lightweight pants or skirts for daytime, but bring a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings, especially in winter. When visiting temples like Angkor Wat, dress modestly—cover your shoulders and knees. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring ancient ruins, and sandals are perfect for the beaches. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection.
Make sure you’re prepared to: Explore Angkor Wat, visit the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, or relax on the beaches of Sihanoukville.
What to Wear in Cambodia
Cambodia is a modest country, especially when it comes to visiting temples and religious sites. Women should wear long skirts or dresses and tops that cover their shoulders, while men should opt for long pants and shirts. In cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, lightweight casual clothing is common for daily wear. At beach resorts in Sihanoukville, more casual outfits like shorts and sundresses are acceptable. For dining out in the evening, a smart-casual outfit like a long dress or a jumpsuit for women, and casual shirts for men, are perfect for exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife.
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Spring
75 – 85°F
(24 – 29°C
)
Summer
80 – 95°F
(27 – 35°C
)
Fall
75 – 90°F
(24 – 32°C
)
Winter
65 – 80°F
(18 – 27°C
)
Spring: Warm and dry
Summer: Hot and humid, especially in the lowlands
Fall: Warm with intermittent rain in the south
Winter: Cool and dry, especially in the highlands
Spring
1 inch of rain
Summer
3 inches of rain
Fall
7 inches of rain
Winter
0.5 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for warm days exploring the temples of Angkor Wat or walking through the markets in Phnom Penh.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for sun protection and modesty when visiting religious sites like Angkor Thom.
3. Sweater: A light sweater is useful for cooler evenings in Siem Reap or the highlands during the winter months.
4. Rain Jacket: Essential during the rainy season, especially if you’re visiting coastal regions like Sihanoukville.
5. Casual Jacket: A light jacket is perfect for cooler evenings or air-conditioned restaurants in cities like Phnom Penh.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Lightweight, breathable pants are great for walking through cities and exploring temples like Bayon at Angkor.
2. Leggings: Perfect for layering under longer tops for modesty or for casual strolls in cities like Battambang.
3. Dresses: Long, flowy dresses are ideal for staying cool and respecting local customs at religious sites like Angkor Wat.
4. Shorts: Suitable for beach days or casual strolls at resorts in Sihanoukville, but avoid them at temples or in public areas.
5. Skirt: A long skirt is perfect for temple visits and city sightseeing, especially in the heat.
6. Jumpsuit: Stylish yet comfortable, a jumpsuit works well for evening outings or walking around Siem Reap’s markets.
7. Tights: Useful for extra warmth in cooler areas or for layering under skirts or dresses for added modesty.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the vast temple complexes of Angkor.
2. Sandals: Perfect for warm days at beach resorts or casual walks along the riverside in Phnom Penh.
3. Swimsuit: A must for relaxing on the beaches of Sihanoukville or at resort pools.
4. Sunglasses: Essential for shielding your eyes from the bright tropical sun while visiting outdoor attractions.
5. Hat: A wide-brimmed hat is ideal for sun protection while walking through the temples or exploring Cambodia’s countryside.
6. Scarf: A light scarf is useful for covering your shoulders at temples or for extra sun protection.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for packing light when traveling between cities like Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Sihanoukville.
2. Daypack: Great for carrying essentials while visiting temples or taking day trips to Cambodia’s national parks.
3. Purse: A small crossbody purse is ideal for keeping essentials close while shopping in local markets or sightseeing.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Modesty: When visiting temples, always cover your shoulders and knees to show respect for local customs.
- Sun Protection: Cambodia’s tropical sun is strong, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Lightweight Fabrics: Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton and linen to stay comfortable in Cambodia’s humid weather.
Cambodia Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT CAMBODIA?
November through March is the best time to visit Cambodia, with cooler, dry weather that is ideal for exploring temples and beaches. December’s also great because it offers pleasant temperatures for visiting Angkor Wat and enjoying Cambodia’s countryside.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN CAMBODIA?
Khmer New Year (April): A nationwide celebration with traditional games, dances, and family gatherings—great for cultural travelers and families.
Water Festival (November): A major event celebrated in Phnom Penh with boat races along the Tonle Sap River—perfect for families, solo travelers, and adventure seekers.
Pchum Ben (September-October): A religious festival honoring ancestors, marked by temple visits and offerings—great for cultural travelers and photographers.
Angkor Wat International Half Marathon (December): Held at the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex, drawing runners from around the world—ideal for fitness enthusiasts and cultural travelers.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN CAMBODIA?
Cambodia is known for its incredible temples, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes. Start with Siem Reap, where you can explore the world-famous Angkor Wat temple complex and its surrounding ruins. One of my favorite places is Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, where you can visit the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum for a sobering glimpse into Cambodia’s history. For beach lovers, head to Sihanoukville or the nearby islands for some relaxation. Don’t miss Battambang for its colonial architecture, scenic countryside, and traditional villages.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT CAMBODIA?
A 7-10 day trip is ideal to explore Cambodia’s key highlights, including Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, and the coastal areas. A shorter 5-day trip can give you a great overview of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Explore the temples of Angkor Wat, visit Bayon, and end the day at Ta Prohm, the famous “jungle temple.” Day 2: Visit the Angkor National Museum in Siem Reap, explore the city’s markets, and take a sunset cruise on Tonle Sap Lake.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary. For Day 3, travel to Phnom Penh and visit the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum. Day 4: Visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields, then stroll along the riverside in the evening. Day 5: Take a day trip to Oudong Mountain, Cambodia’s former capital, and explore the ancient stupas and temples.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary. For Day 6, head to Sihanoukville for some beach relaxation. Day 7: Take a boat trip to Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem for snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying Cambodia’s pristine beaches.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary. For Day 8, return to Phnom Penh for shopping or a cooking class. Day 9: Explore Battambang’s countryside, visiting traditional villages and the bamboo train. Day 10: Return to Siem Reap for a final day of temple exploration or relaxation before departing.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary. For Day 11, explore Kampot and its pepper plantations, and enjoy a boat ride along the river. Day 12: Visit Bokor National Park for panoramic views and hiking. Day 13: Relax on the beaches of Kep, famous for its seafood. Day 14: Return to Phnom Penh for last-minute sightseeing or shopping before departure.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN CAMBODIA?
2 Days
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Dress
- 1 Pair of Walking Shoes
5 Days
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 2 Dresses
- 1 Pair of Walking Shoes
1 Week
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 2 Dresses
- 1 Pair of Walking Shoes
10 Days
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Fleece Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 3 Dresses
- 1 Pair of Walking Shoes
2 Weeks
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Fleece Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 4 Dresses
- 1 Pair of Walking Shoes
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR CAMBODIA?
Heavy winter coat: Cambodia’s tropical climate doesn’t require heavy outerwear.
Revealing clothing: Avoid tank tops and short shorts, especially at temples and religious sites.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO CAMBODIA ?
Airfare: $700-$1,200 depending on the season, with prices higher in the dry winter months.
Accommodation: $20-$100 per night, with options ranging from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels.
Transportation: $15-$40 per day for buses, taxis, or tuk-tuks between cities like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.
Meals: $10-$50 per day. Local meals are inexpensive, while dining in restaurants and resorts is more expensive.
Activities: $30-$100 depending on entrance fees to Angkor Wat, guided tours, and boat trips.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN CAMBODIA? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is appreciated but not required in Cambodia. In restaurants, leaving 5-10% is common if service is good. For tour guides and drivers, tipping $5-$10 per day is appropriate. In hotels, tipping porters and housekeeping staff $1-$2 per bag or per day is appreciated.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CAMBODIA BEFORE I VISIT?
- Modesty: Dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites—cover your shoulders and knees.
- Currency: Cambodia uses the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but the US Dollar is widely accepted for larger transactions.
- Weather: Cambodia’s tropical climate means it can be hot and humid, so pack light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated.
- Etiquette: Always remove your shoes before entering temples or someone’s home as a sign of respect.